Researchers from Northwestern University in Illinois, US, used graphene in a new formula of hair dye, which they say is non-damaging, and can last for 30 washes without fading.

Graphene, created by British scientists, is a Nobel prize-winning material which is 200 times stronger than steel, and it’s also conductive - so that the hair dyed with it is less prone to those pesky flyaways, caused by static.

Professor Jiaxing Huang, who led the study, said: “This is an idea that was inspired by curiosity. It was very fun to do, but it didn't sound very big and noble when we started working on it.

“But after we deep-dived into studying hair dyes, we realised that, wow, this is actually not at all a small problem. And it's one that graphene could really help to solve.”

While temporary dyes only coat the hair, the graphene dye lasts for an impressive 30 washes

The researchers used graphene sheets to make a dye which coats the hair and can last numerous washes, but won’t totally penetrate the hair.

Damaging the hair cuticle is what makes hair brittle, and although ordinary temporary dye that simple coats the hair can solve this, this option tends to wash out very quickly.

Professor Huang explained: “Your hair is covered in these cuticle scales like the scales of a fish, and people have to use ammonia or organic amines to lift the scales and allow dye molecules to get inside a lot quicker.”

His team was able to turn platinum blonde hair black, and the colour lasted for an impressive 30 washes.

Professor Huang’s team have currently only made dye in black and brown, but are hoping to develop other colours - and even use the product to conduct electricity on the hair, integrating it with wearable electronics.

Speaking of the possibilities, he says: “We are only limited by our imagination."

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